CUNA Credit Union
1997 -1998
Current site:https://www.summitcreditunion.com/
CUNA Credit Union was organized on September 14, 1935, by the employees of CUNA, Inc., CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, and CUNA Supply Co-op. Located in Wisconsin, this was their website for a number of years.
Content is from the site's 1997 -1998 archived pages.
In 2005, CUNA Credit Union changed its name to Great Wisconsin Credit Union (GWCU) and then, in 2008, changed its name to Summit Credit Union, merging in the former Summit Credit Union, formerly State Capitol Employees Credit Union, maintaining CUNA/Great Wisconsin’s original charter and field of membership.
Their current website is found at:
https://www.summitcreditunion.com/
"I am contemplating securing a loan from CUNA Credit Union. My research on this institution revealed that it was established on September 14, 1935, a fact that provides a sense of stability and reliability crucial for entering into a financial agreement. My objective is to garner sufficient funds to kickstart an online jewelry venture, specializing exclusively in sterling silver rings. Given the importance of search engine optimization (SEO) for online visibility, allocating resources towards a robust SEO strategy is essential to achieve high search rankings. I'm going to hire one of the best SEOs and development teams and they are standing by. Drawing inspiration from SterlingForever.com, a leading name consistently dominating search results for sterling silver rings, I aim to replicate their success model. In my pursuit, I've diligently gathered information about CUNA, engaged with their representatives, and meticulously prepared my business proposal. Upon submission of my detailed plan and financial projections, I was delighted to receive approval for the loan amount I sought. This approval marks an exciting milestone." Jenn Lowe
Historical Content from 1997 -1998
CUNA Credit Union will do whatever is necessary to enhance the growth and development of our member-owners financial well-being.
A Brief History of CUNA Credit Union
CUNA Credit Union was organized on September 14, 1935, by the employees of CUNA, Inc., CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, and CUNA Supply Co-op. CUNA Credit Union was founded and grew on the philosophy of meeting members' financial needs with personalized service. The founders, including famous credit union pioneers such as Thomas Doig and Roy F. Bergengren, sought the opportunity to offer credit union services for anyone who did not have services available to them. As a result, CUNA Credit Union received a unique, open charter from the State of Wisconsin meaning anyone, anywhere could join the credit union.
Through the decades, our members have become busier with the trials and tribulations of their own daily lives. No one has nine-to-five schedules anymore. CUNA Credit Union recognizes the need to offer services that will accommodate a hectic lifestyle.
In 1988, the credit union introduced Quick Teller-a voice response system that enables members to check balances, to see if a check has cleared, and more...24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week. In addition, we now offer access to loans on a 24 hour basis. Members can talk with someone about their needs when it's convenient for them. Loan approvals take just a few minutes now, not days. It won't be too long before home banking via computers will be available. Keeping up with the latest in technology is part of our service commitment to you. Our goal is to offer our members the best the world has to offer.
PC BranchCUNA Credit Union has a strong commitment to our members and the community. We believe it's important to give back to the community where our members live.
Since 1992 CUNA Credit Union, along with other area credit unions, has participated in March of Dimes' fight for healthier babies. Each year the Credit Union Spirit team has hundreds of members and employees walking and raising money for this worthwhile cause. During the past four years, the team has raised over $65,000 in support of research for healthier babies.
Beginning in 1998, CUNA Credit Union and several Madison Area Credit Unions will be supporting and raising money for the Children's Miracle Network - CMN is about helping kids with health problems - from rare childhood diseases to AIDS to cancer to accident victims. All money raised in Dane County, will be used at the Milwaukee Children's Hospital, last year 270 kids were helped! The money is used to purchase highly specialized equipment, research, and covering the cost of expensive procedures. All children are helped regardless of ability to pay. The nationwide credit union effort "Credit Unions for Kids" program raised $2.3 million for CMN in its second year (1996-1997). Local fundraising efforts include T-shirt sales with the CMN "Credit Union for kids" logo, a "Credit Union's Have A Heart for Kids" paperchain, and several other events.
In 1996, CUNA Credit Union began developing a long-term commitment to the Boys & Girls Club of Dane County (formally the South Madison Neighborhood Center) by offering a credit recovery mentoring program and an after-school educational and snack program. The credit union also supports the families who use the Dane County Domestic Abuse & Intervention Service. We donate children's welcome kits filled with a coloring book, writing materials, and a stuffed animal of the credit union's kids club mascot to help the children feel more comfortable during a sometimes frightening time.
A myriad of things have changed in the world and even for CUNA Credit Union in the past sixty years. CUNA Credit Union has grown to over $140 million in assets and has over 38,000 members.
Although change surrounds all of us, the most important things at CUNA Credit Union have remained constant. That is, CUNA Credit Union's commitment to our purpose...not for profit, not for charity, but for service. And CUNA Credit Union still offers a safe place to borrow and save money, while providing our members with financial services to enhance their lives.
When you join CUNA Credit Union, you are a member-owner of one of the area's largest and most progressive credit unions. Progressive in the products and services we offer and how we deliver them. And being a member-owner of CUNA Credit Union is a unique opportunity to have a voice in the new products and services you want most. That's what CUNA Credit Union is all about: yesterday, today, and tomorrow. People helping people.
Convenience . . . it means different things to different members. Convenience means having services that are top-notch and easy to use. To others, it means getting answers quickly to questions or being able to apply for a loan with a touchtone phone. And still to others, convenience means having a friendly representative to help out when needed. CUNA Credit Union offers all of these conveniences and much more!
PC Branch New!
CUNA Credit Union now offers PC Banking. With our PC Branch system, you can conduct transactions through our Internet home page by clicking on the above PC Branch icon. Use it to...
- Transfer money between accounts
- Check your account balance
- Inquire about cleared checks, deposits, and withdrawals
- Print a copy of your statement
- Take an advance of a line of credit
- Request fund withdrawal by check
- Reorder your checks
- View annual tax information
PC Branch is safe and easy to use. Click now on the PC Branch icon and see for yourself!
Person To Person Loans
Call anytime 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week! It's a fast and easy way to learn about our different loans, calculate monthly payments and do "what-if" scenarios. A signature is all we'll need once you're approved.* We may even be able to handle everything by mail. In Madison, call 244-2400; outside of Madison, call (800) 454-9284.*Approval subject to CUNA Credit Union's normal underwriting guidelines and standards.
Quick Teller
It's easy, it's free, and you're automatically enrolled. This convenient service enables you to check your account balances, inquire on cleared checks, withdraw money, transfer money from one account to another and more . . . any time, any day, and from any touchtone phone. Just follow these simple steps . . .
Here's how to use Quick Teller:
- Madison area: 244-2400
- Toll-free: (800) 454-9284
3) Follow the instructions given by the automated teller . . .
- Your member account number
- Your password
- Find out your account balances
- Inquire on cleared checks
- Transfer money from one account to another
- Request a check to be sent to you
- Request Redi-Credit and Home Equity line-of-credit advances
- And more!!
Quick Check Card
We designed our Quick Check card for the person who's always on the go, whether it's around town, across the country, or across the sea. It's the one travel companion you won't want to leave behind.
Quick Check gives you access to your checking account anytime, anywhere . . . all for $6.00 a year. Use it like a credit card at any place that accepts VISA, but the money will come out of your checking account. It's quicker and easier than writing a check! Plus, there's no need to show your ID.
Or use Quick Check as a TYME card at thousands of automated teller machines worldwide. Many financial institutions will charge extra for using your Quick Check (TYME) card outside of the TYME network. Not us! Use your card at any PLUS network machine, and the "extra charge" is on us!
ATM Card
You can use your ATM Card at thousands of automated teller machines (ATMs) worldwide to receive cash when you need it.Overdraft Protection:
- Savings transfers
Automatic transfers in increments
of $100 will be made to your checking account
to cover overdrafts. This is a free service.
- Redi-Credit line of credit transfers
You can protect yourself from mathematical errors by applying for
Redi-Credit. If approved, money will be transferred from
this loan to your checking account in $100 increments
to cover overdrafts. You make small payments every
month that won't cramp your lifestyle.
Direct Deposit
The fastest way between you and your paycheck. You can have your payroll directly deposited into your CUNA Credit Union checking or savings account. You can set up automatic transfers to your loan, Christmas Club, IRA, or any other account!
Checking Accounts
Free Checking
Finally, an account that takes the worry out of charges and fees. With CUNA Credit Union's Free Checking (share draft) account, you'll never have to think about maintaining a minimum balance again. And you won't be charged a monthly checking fee either. Our Free Checking account has no fees and even includes unlimited checkwriting.
If you're always on the go, no problem. Get CUNA Credit Union's Quick Check card. Use your Quick Check card just like a credit card at any place that accepts VISA, but the money comes right out of your checking account. Or use Quick Check as a TYME card and we'll give you 6 withdrawals free per month. Unlike other financial institutions, deposits (in Wis. only) and transfers are always free at any TYME machine.
Dividend Checking
We offer Dividend Checking for those who want more from their checking account. With an average daily balance of $750, you'll earn dividends and avoid a $6.00 monthly service charge. Enjoy writing 30 checks per month with no fee. You can also use your Quick Check card and avoid writing checks! Plus, enjoy 6 withdrawals free per month at any TYME machine. We'll waive all monthly checking fees (excluding TYME fees) if you have a first or second mortgage with CUNA Credit Union or if you maintain $1,000 in your high-earning Savings, Investor's Choice, Certificate, or Individual Retirement Account (IRA).
Loan Checking
Getting a loan soon? Why not save yourself some money while you're at it. Open a loan checking account and anytime you need a loan, you'll receive a .10% decrease on most closed-end loans* from CUNA Credit Union. This is not a one-time deal. You can use the bonus on any future loans.
Maintain a $300 minimum balance and avoid the monthly fee of $5.00. Write up to 30 checks per month without a charge. We'll waive all monthly checking fees (excluding TYME fees) if you have a first or second mortgage with CUNA Credit Union or if you maintain $1,000 in your high-earning Savings, Investor's Choice, Certificate, or Individual Retirement Account.
Don't forget your Quick Check card. Quick Check can be used just like a credit card at any place that accepts VISA, but the money comes right out of your checking account. Or use Quick Check as a TYME card and we'll give you 6 withdrawals free per month. Unlike other financial institutions, deposits and transfers are always free at any TYME machine.
*Most closed-end consumer loans are included. Excludes VISA credit
cards, Redi-Credit and Home Equity lines of credit, lot/land/
construction, student loans and first mortgages. No refinances.
New money only. Qualified borrowers only.
VIP Checking
If you're 60 years old or better, then we have the club for you! Join CUNA Credit Union's VIP Club and receive exciting perks. Earn dividends on an average daily balance of $750. With your VIP Checking, you'll receive a free Quick Check or TYME card with no annual fee and unlimited withdrawals, deposits, and transfers at any TYME machine.
There's more! You'll receive free customized checks, free money orders, free travelers checks, and free photocopies. For your added enjoyment, you'll receive a quarterly newsletter filled with timely information that's important to you! With a minimum balance of $5,000 in your Savings, Investor's Choice, Checking or Certificate, we will waive all monthly checking fees.
Tuck away a little at a time for that special holiday. You'll receive your money in October for early shopping convenience. You can make deposits in person, by mail, or by payroll deduction - whichever is easiest!
Here's an easy way to save for your youth's future plans. This unique account is unavailable to your youth until 21 years of age.
Regular
A low minimum deposit can get you started earning a higher return on your sound investment. Balances over $10,000 earn even more.Youth
A great way to start a college fund with a low minimum deposit of only $500.Save for retirement and enjoy the tax benefits now. (Please consult your tax advisor.) Unlike other financial institutions, we don't charge any
maintenance fees.
Quick Teller
It's easy, it's free, and you're automatically enrolled. This convenient service enables you to check your account balances, inquire on cleared checks, withdraw money, transfer money from one account to another and more . . . any time, any day, and from any touchtone phone.
244-2400 or 244-CUNADirect Deposit
The fastest way between you and your paycheck. You can have your payroll directly deposited into your CUNA Credit Union checking or savings account. You can set up automatic transfers to your loan, Christmas Club, IRA, or any other account!
Business Checking
We have created a business account for small business owners like yourself with extremely competitive rates and fees. You can also deposit up to 20 checks per visit without a fee. This account has a monthly service fee.
West Office
401 South Yellowstone Drive
(Three blocks east of West Towne Mall at
Mineral Point Road and Yellowstone Drive)608-244-2400
608-271-6982 FAX
608-271-2149 TDDLobby Hours
Monday - Thursday 9:00 - 5:00 Friday 9:00 - 5:30 Saturday 9:00 - 12:00 noon Drive Thru
Monday - Friday 7:30 - 6:00 Saturday 9:00 - 12:00 noon
Mailing Address
PO BOX 5428
Madison, WI 53705-0428
1799 Thierer Road
(Located one block west of East Towne Mall
at East Washington Ave and Thierer Road)608-244-2400
608-244-8010 FAX
608-271-2149 TDDLobby Hours
Monday - Thursday 9:00 - 5:00 Friday 9:00 - 5:30 Saturday 9:00 - 12:00 noon Drive Thru
Monday - Friday 7:30 - 6:00 Saturday 9:00 - 12:00 noon
Mailing Address
PO BOX 3357
Madison, WI 53704-0357
5810 Mineral Point
(Located in the Credit Union Center)608-244-2400
608-231-2030 FAX
608-271-2149 TDDLobby Hours
Monday - Friday 8:00 - 2:00
800-454-9284
Madison: 244-2400 or 246-CUNAToll-Free: 800-454-9284
More Background On CUNACU.org
The domain CUNACU.org serves as an online historical archive documenting the former CUNA Credit Union, a Wisconsin-based financial institution that played an important role in both the state's banking landscape and the broader American credit union movement. Although the original credit union no longer operates under the CUNA Credit Union name, the website preserves a snapshot of its products, services, philosophy, and organizational culture during the late 1990s. Today, the institution continues as Summit Credit Union, one of Wisconsin's largest financial cooperatives, making CUNACU.org both a historical reference and a valuable record of how community financial institutions evolved during the early years of internet banking.
Origins of CUNA Credit Union
CUNA Credit Union traces its roots to September 1935, when it was organized by employees of CUNA, Inc., CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, and CUNA Supply Cooperative in Madison, Wisconsin. Unlike many credit unions of the era, which served only narrowly defined employee groups, CUNA Credit Union eventually received an unusually broad charter from Wisconsin regulators, allowing virtually anyone to become a member regardless of employer or geographic location. This open membership philosophy distinguished it from many competing financial cooperatives of the period.
The institution's formation was closely connected with two of the most influential pioneers in the American credit union movement:
- Thomas Doig
- Roy F. Bergengren
Both men believed that cooperative financial institutions should be widely accessible and that individuals should have affordable alternatives to traditional commercial banks. Their influence helped shape CUNA Credit Union's longstanding emphasis on member ownership, service, and financial education.
Relationship to the Credit Union Movement
Understanding CUNACU.org also requires understanding the significance of CUNA, originally known as the Credit Union National Association.
For decades, Madison served as one of the national centers of the American credit union movement. Numerous organizations supporting credit unions—including CUNA, CUNA Mutual, WOCCU (World Council of Credit Unions), Filene Research Institute, and CUES (Credit Union Executives Society)—maintained operations in the Madison area.
CUNA Credit Union existed primarily to serve employees connected with this growing network while gradually expanding membership beyond those organizations. Because employees of one credit union historically could not borrow from their own employer's credit union, CUNA Credit Union filled an important niche by providing financial services to people working throughout the cooperative financial industry.
The CUNACU.org Website
The archived CUNACU.org website reflects what a progressive financial institution looked like during the late 1990s.
Rather than functioning simply as an online brochure, the site attempted to introduce members to emerging electronic banking technologies while reinforcing the organization's cooperative values.
Its navigation included sections such as:
- A Brief History of CUNA Credit Union
- Member Service
- Community Involvement
- Board of Directors
- Senior Management
- Management Team
- Annual Report
- Banking Services
- Checking Accounts
- Savings Programs
- Loans
- Branch Locations
- Contact Information
The design itself was typical of financial institution websites from the period—simple graphics, straightforward navigation, and heavy emphasis on text rather than multimedia. At a time when most consumers still relied on dial-up internet connections, fast loading and clear organization were considered major strengths.
A Forward-Thinking Financial Institution
One of the most interesting aspects preserved by CUNACU.org is how aggressively CUNA Credit Union embraced technology.
Long before online banking became commonplace, the institution introduced services that reduced dependence on in-person branch visits.
These included:
- 24-hour Quick Teller telephone banking
- Automated loan approvals
- Telephone loan applications
- ATM access
- Debit card functionality
- Direct deposit
- PC Branch online banking
The archived website proudly describes these innovations as part of its commitment to accommodate increasingly busy lifestyles.
For financial historians, this provides valuable insight into how regional credit unions were already adapting to digital banking before many larger commercial banks had done the same.
PC Branch: Early Internet Banking
Perhaps the most remarkable feature highlighted on the website is PC Branch.
Today, online banking is expected. In 1997, however, internet banking remained relatively new.
Through PC Branch, members could:
- Check balances
- Review cleared checks
- Transfer funds
- Print account statements
- Request withdrawals
- Reorder checks
- View annual tax information
- Access lines of credit
These services represented cutting-edge consumer banking technology during the period.
The website repeatedly emphasized both convenience and security, demonstrating that member confidence in online financial transactions still needed to be earned during the early internet era.
Products and Services
CUNACU.org provides extensive documentation of the products offered in the late 1990s.
Checking accounts included:
- Free Checking
- Dividend Checking
- Loan Checking
- VIP Checking for seniors
- Business Checking
Savings options included:
- Christmas Club accounts
- Custodial Accounts
- Certificates of Deposit
- Individual Retirement Accounts
- IRA Builder
- Roth IRA
- Education IRA
Loan products ranged from:
- Consumer loans
- Home equity lines
- Mortgages
- Credit lines
- Telephone loan applications
The website consistently framed these services around helping members improve their financial well-being rather than maximizing institutional profits, reflecting the cooperative structure of credit unions.
Community Commitment
The archived website devotes substantial space to community service.
Unlike commercial banks, which often highlight shareholder returns, CUNA Credit Union emphasized charitable partnerships and volunteerism.
Programs included support for:
- March of Dimes
- Children's Miracle Network
- Boys & Girls Club of Dane County
- Domestic Abuse Intervention Services
The credit union reported raising tens of thousands of dollars for March of Dimes through employee and member fundraising activities.
It also participated in the nationwide Credit Unions for Kids initiative supporting Children's Miracle Network hospitals.
These efforts reflected the cooperative philosophy commonly summarized within the credit union industry as "People Helping People."
Branch Locations
During the period represented on CUNACU.org, the institution maintained multiple Madison-area locations.
These included:
- West Office on South Yellowstone Drive
- East Office on Thierer Road
- International Commons office within the Credit Union Center
The locations were strategically positioned near major retail centers, including West Towne Mall and East Towne Mall, making them convenient for members throughout Madison.
The website also listed extensive contact information, drive-through hours, lobby hours, TDD access for hearing-impaired members, and nationwide toll-free numbers—features demonstrating an emphasis on accessibility.
Size and Growth
By the late 1990s, CUNA Credit Union had become one of Wisconsin's larger financial cooperatives.
According to historical information preserved on the site, it had:
- More than 38,000 members
- Approximately $140 million in assets
Historical timelines published later by Summit Credit Union show continued rapid expansion throughout the following decade, including increasing assets, additional branches, bilingual services, small-business lending, and expanded digital banking capabilities.
Transition to Great Wisconsin Credit Union
One of the most significant milestones in the organization's history occurred in 2005.
The institution officially changed its name from CUNA Credit Union to Great Wisconsin Credit Union (GWCU).
The change reflected an effort to broaden public recognition beyond the historic CUNA name while continuing to operate under the same charter.
The organization retained its cooperative principles but adopted a broader statewide identity intended to support future growth.
Becoming Summit Credit Union
Another major transformation occurred in 2008.
Great Wisconsin Credit Union merged with the former Summit Credit Union, itself originally known as the State Capitol Employees Credit Union.
Following member approval, the combined organization adopted the Summit Credit Union name while retaining CUNA Credit Union's original charter and field of membership.
This merger became one of the largest credit union consolidations in Wisconsin history and positioned Summit Credit Union for substantial future expansion.
Summit Credit Union Today
Although CUNACU.org documents only the earlier institution, today's Summit Credit Union has grown dramatically.
According to Summit's published history, the organization now serves hundreds of thousands of members, operates dozens of locations throughout Wisconsin, and manages several billion dollars in assets.
Modern services include:
- Mobile banking
- Mobile deposits
- Zelle integration
- Business banking
- Wealth management
- Mortgage services
- Financial education initiatives
- Youth financial literacy programs
The cooperative philosophy first emphasized on CUNACU.org continues to influence Summit's public mission today.
Audience
Historically, the website primarily served:
- Existing members
- Prospective members
- Employees of organizations within the credit union movement
- Wisconsin residents
- Small business owners
- Families seeking cooperative financial services
Because membership eligibility eventually became very broad, the audience expanded well beyond employees of CUNA-affiliated organizations.
Design and User Experience
Viewed through a modern lens, the archived site appears simple.
However, for its era, CUNACU.org demonstrated several strengths:
- Logical navigation
- Extensive educational content
- Clear service descriptions
- Emphasis on convenience
- Promotion of electronic banking
- Easy access to branch information
Rather than focusing heavily on marketing language, the website concentrated on helping members understand available financial products.
Reviews and Reputation
While formal online review platforms were uncommon during the late 1990s, CUNA Credit Union developed a strong reputation within Wisconsin's cooperative banking community.
Its longevity, continued growth, and eventual evolution into Summit Credit Union suggest sustained member confidence over many decades.
The institution became known for:
- Personalized service
- Financial education
- Technology adoption
- Community involvement
- Cooperative values
- Accessible lending
Many longtime Wisconsin residents still remember the institution under its former CUNA Credit Union or Great Wisconsin Credit Union names before it became Summit Credit Union.
Historical Importance
CUNACU.org has value well beyond documenting one financial institution.
It preserves an important moment in internet history, showing how regional financial organizations first embraced the web as a customer service platform.
The site also documents:
- Early online banking
- Telephone banking innovations
- Cooperative financial philosophy
- Community engagement
- Evolution of consumer financial technology
- Growth of Wisconsin's credit union movement
Researchers interested in banking history, internet history, or the development of digital financial services can view CUNACU.org as a useful snapshot of late-1990s financial services.
Lasting Legacy
Although the CUNA Credit Union name disappeared through successive rebranding and merger activity, its legacy remains visible in Summit Credit Union's continuing operations.
Many of the principles emphasized throughout the archived website—including member ownership, financial education, technological innovation, and community service—continue to define the successor institution today.
For former members, CUNACU.org provides a nostalgic look at an earlier era of cooperative banking. For historians and researchers, it offers documentation of one of Wisconsin's influential credit unions during a period when financial services were rapidly transitioning into the digital age. Rather than representing a defunct organization, the site illustrates the evolutionary path of an institution that adapted to changing technologies, expanded its membership, and ultimately became one of Wisconsin's leading credit unions while preserving its original cooperative mission.